How Long Do Things Last? What’s The Life Expectancy Of Home Components?

When building a new home, you are investing a lot of hard work, time, and money.

But have you given any thought to just how long those things that you’re installing are going to last? I have.

Recently the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shed some light on the life expectancy of common components inside a home — everything from appliances, cabinetry, and flooring… to roofing, plumbing, and HVAC.

Have a look…

Case In Point: My Washer & Dryer

My mother-in-law and I recently had this same conversation.

I asked her how long she thought a washer & dryer should last. She thought maybe 10 years.

I told her my Kenmore washer & dryer were purchased in 1992, making them 15 years old — and still going strong!

Shock and awe were expressed by all.

Turns out, according to this NAHB study, washers and dryers typically last 10 to 13 years.

…So I guess I’ve gotten my money’s worth!

Results From The NAHB Study: Summarized

What follows are the life expectancies of home components, based on how long items typically last, on average.

That means that some last longer, and others don’t last as long… based on frequency and type of use, as well as routine maintenance and upkeep.

NOTE: There is a wealth of information from the study that is not included here. To view the exact sources, special circumstances, and exceptions see the complete study here.

I guess that’s why you’re starting to see so many more copper roofing materials used these days!

And I couldn’t help but wonder… what’s the life expectancy of steel metal or aluminum roofs? You see more and more people choosing this form of roofing for their new home, especially log home owners. Did I just miss it in the report?

All in all, I am so thankful to the National Association of Home Builders for doing this study, as the information is worth its weight in gold for homebuilders and remodelers!

I like to help people find unique ways to do things in order to save time & money — so I write about “outside the box” ideas that most wouldn’t think of. As a lifelong dog owner, I often share my best tips for living with and training dogs. I worked in Higher Ed over 10 years before switching gears to pursue activities that I’m truly passionate about. I’ve worked at a vet, in a photo lab, and at a zoo — to name a few. I enjoy the outdoors via bicycle, motorcycle, Jeep, or RV. You can always find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun & helpful websites).

MORE LIKE THIS ...

FREE LOG HOME TIPS & IDEAS VIA EMAIL

Stay up to date with what's happening on The Log Home Guide. From Designing & Building your new log home to Decorating & Maintaining your rustic home... you'll always be the first to see these helpful tips as soon as we publish a new article.